Seven epic music videos you HAVE to watch

To celebrate the JUMP Music Video Awards that take place on Saturday 21st October, here’s a list of some of our favourite videos that we think you should check out.

1. Ekklesia – Where You Are ft. Jaz Ellington

This is a a clear cut example of what a music video can be if done well. It’s the first of two tear-jerkers on our list and the reason it hits you emotionally is because of the story it tells. It’s a real illustration of forgiveness in trying circumstances.

Shabazz Graham does great work with producing this video for Ekklesia (and this won’t be the last time you’ll see his work on our list). After watching it, you’ll feel like you’ve watched a movie and it’ll surprise you that it’s only 5.30 minutes long.

2. Andy Mineo – Hear My Heart

There’s very little by way of visual acrobatics here. This video is simple but incredibly powerful, especially when you know the backstory.

Andy has a sister called Grace who is deaf and it’s always eaten away at him that he never learnt to use sign language so that he could properly communicate with her. He made the Song Hear My Heart, which was a brilliant track on the 2015 Uncomfortable album. But it was when he released the video that he really made it come to life. He raps along using sign language and that’s what becomes the focus of the visuals. Andy released this during International Week of the Deaf. Nice!

3. Kirk Franklin – Smile ft Steve Harvey

Introducing Dwayne Franklin and Heavenly Chocolate! As long as you see comedian Steve Harvey’s name mentioned in a music video, you know it’s going to be a riot. It’s one to make you laugh.

This video is separate to what it is the official version found on Kirk Franklin’s VEVO but this Steve Harvey (or should that be Pastor Pretty) one will transport you to the past in a really entertaining way. Shout out to the dude eating a full-on bucket of KFC with no remorse!

4. Dwayne Tryumf – 777 Intro

This minute and a half dynamite visual had humble beginnings. Originally shot to promo the Uprise TV series, it took on a life of its own.

Sure, this video is helped by the fact that it’s lyrically flawless. Few MCs have come close – even a decade later. But what makes this video great is that it isn’t over-engineered, yet still has an iconic look. It even spawned a series of spoofs – which is usually a sign that you’ve made an impact. This wasn’t anywhere near as big a production as the other Shabazz Graham video on this list but it’s still hard-hitting.

5. David Crowder Band – SMS [Shine]

Another classic, this one from 2010. It’s a DIY project taken to a whole new level. Take one pin board and 700,000 pegs, throw them together and you have a memorable video.

OK, so we’re massively over-simplifying it, but that’s essentially what they did. The David Crowder Band made the video themselves using stop motion in what must have taken an absolute age to finish but the end result is well worth it. It’s both colourful and charming.

6. Evans Ogboi – Shout Hallelujah

This is such a joyous video with so much energy you can’t help but fall in love with it.

Pat on the back to Iyke Eche of HSIDEAS for this one. The juxtaposition of the robed gospel choir on the basketball court works really well. It’s the result of what happens when you inject some real creativity into a performance video. It’s one that we keep going back to. Love it!

7. Lecrae – I’ll Find You ft Tori Kelly

We weren’t ready for this one. On the first (and maybe second and third) viewing, this one might move you to tears. It’s a message of hope but it’s also a reminder of the challenge that some people go through every day.

Many of us have been affected by cancer in some shape or form. If you have, you’ll probably know that the drugs are only part of the treatment. This video is about not giving up and is a tribute to the young fighters who refuse to let a cruel disease defeat them. Director Mike Mihail has made a poignant video as part of a campaign to raise awareness and funds for St Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Join the fight here.